The aim of remedial massage is to reverse the effects of physical injuries the patient is enduring, and return him or her to normal health after an injury. Remedial massage is one of the most effective ways to prevent and treat muscle injuries and the pain and soreness that result from them. Even where the patient has experienced a moderate or heavy injury which has lead to structural pain or loss of function, successful treatment can still be given.
Remedial massage involves a patient consultation and assessment of muscles, tendons, ligaments and other connective tissues leading to a diagnosis of which technique needs to be performed on which specific area of of the body. This is followed by appropriate treatment to aid in the rehabilitation and the management of pain or injury.
Treatment employs massage techniques designed to treat both deep and superficial tissues, not dissimilar to those used in sports massage. The remedial massage therapist uses skilled manipulation combined with in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology to bring about pain relief, correcting and normalising the body’s muscles and soft tissues.
Although many clients who consult a remedial massage therapist have pain as a result of specific injuries such as whiplash, falls, repetitive strain injuries and other work-related problems, the vast majority of issues originate in postural alignment problems stemming from childhood.
Remedial massage is based on the fact that soft tissue such as muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia, respond to touch. Trigger points, meaning the sensitive points in muscles which radiate or refer pain to various parts of the body, can mimic many conditions. In addition to their motor function, muscles stabilise joints and protect internal organs. Minor problems with these functions be the cause of a surprising range of different pains. Many headaches originate in the muscles of the neck and head and much of the pain of conditions such as angina comes from hypercontraction of the chest muscles. Abdominal and pelvic pain is often caused by trigger points in the abdominal and pelvic muscles. Low back pain and sciatic pain are far more likely to originate from muscles than from vertebral disc problems.
Ruben has undertaken an in-depth study of anatomy and physiology. This knowledge and understanding enables him to carry out an assessment and provide appropriate treatment for a wide variety of conditions. Please note, it is always advisable to consult a doctor before receiving a massage for specific conditions which may not be related to soft tissue.
As always, Ruben takes a holistic approach to his treatments and will give related advice as appropriate to avoid recurrence of the condition or any related issues he detects.